ZAMBIA – An alarming health crisis has emerged in Zambia as 400 dogs are reported dead after consuming maize-based dog food suspected to be contaminated with high levels of aflatoxins, a toxic substance produced by fungi.
The contamination has raised concerns about the potential impact on human health, as maize is the country’s staple food, consumed by millions daily.
Elijah Muchima, Health Minister, revealed that half of the 25 samples taken from milling companies showed dangerously high aflatoxin levels.
These findings are particularly concerning, given that aflatoxins are known to cause liver cancer in humans, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The contamination was first uncovered after a Zambian broadcaster, Diamond TV, reported the deaths of dozens of dogs linked to aflatoxin poisoning.
Authorities subsequently launched an investigation, testing samples from 10 milling companies that produce both maize-based dog food and maize meal for human consumption.
While no human fatalities have been reported, the Zambia National Public Health Institute is investigating the extent of the contamination’s impact on the general population.
The health ministry has responded by recalling affected batches of maize meal and issuing seizure notices to the implicated companies, though the names of these companies and specific brands have not been disclosed.
Muchima attributed the heightened aflatoxin levels to climate change and the severe drought that has recently plagued Zambia, damaging crops and critically reducing maize supplies.
With maize accounting for about 60% of the population’s daily calorie intake, concerns are growing among politicians and the public about the potential spread of contaminated maize.
Opposition Member of Parliament Sunday Chanda, who claimed to have lost six dogs to the tainted maize meal, voiced frustration over the government’s handling of the situation on social media. He urged the government to act swiftly to prevent further consumption of the toxic maize.
The Millers Association of Zambia assured the public that efforts are being made to resolve the issue.
Andrew Chintala, the association’s president, stated that surveillance of maize products has been intensified and that the source of the contamination is still under investigation.
In response to the crisis, the Zambian government has extended its surveillance efforts across the country and increased sampling to prevent further aflatoxin-related incidents.
As investigations continue, the public has been urged to remain on high alert and report any incidents to the authorities.
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